Higher National Unit specification
General information
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
Unit code:
H939 35
Superclass:
RD
Publication date:
May 2015
Source:
Scottish Qualifications Authority
Version:
01
Unit purpose
This Unit is designed to enable learners to understand key aspects of transition metal
chemistry, encompassing the chemistry and structural properties of d-metal elements,
compounds and complexes, and the concepts of bonding to the spectral and magnetic
properties of coordination compounds. Learners will also develop practical skills in
techniques relevant to transition metal chemistry. The Unit is suitable for learners studying at
HND level, and will provide the necessary underpinning knowledge and skills to enable
progression to further study of transition metal chemistry at degree level or to seek
employment in science based industries.
Outcomes
On successful completion of the Unit the learner will be able to:
1
2
3
4
Apply nomenclature and isomerism principles of transition metal complexes.
Describe bonding models and properties of transition metal complexes.
Describe applications and redox chemistry of transition metals.
Perform practical experiments related to transition metal chemistry.
Credit points and level
1 Higher National Unit credit at SCQF level 8: (8 SCQF credit points at SCQF level 8)
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
1
Higher National Unit Specification: General information (cont)
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
Recommended entry to the Unit
Entry is at the discretion of the centre, however it is recommended that learners should have
completed the HN Units H92X 34 Fundamental Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills and
H92Y 34 Inorganic Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills or equivalent.
Core Skills
Opportunities to develop aspects of Core Skills are highlighted in the Support Notes for this
Unit specification.
There is no automatic certification of Core Skills or Core Skill components in this Unit.
Context for delivery
If this Unit is delivered as part of a Group Award, it is recommended that it should be taught
and assessed within the subject area of the Group Award to which it contributes.
The Assessment Support Pack (ASP) for this Unit provides assessment and marking
guidelines that exemplify the national standard for achievement. It is a valid, reliable and
practicable assessment. Centres wishing to develop their own assessments should refer to
the ASP to ensure a comparable standard. A list of existing ASPs is available to download
from SQA’s website (http://www.sqa.org.uk/sqa/46233.2769.html).
Equality and inclusion
This Unit specification has been designed to ensure that there are no unnecessary barriers
to learning or assessment. The individual needs of learners should be taken into account
when planning learning experiences, selecting assessment methods or considering
alternative evidence.
Further advice can be found on our website www.sqa.org.uk/assessmentarrangements.
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
2
Higher National Unit specification: Statement of standards
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
Acceptable performance in this Unit will be the satisfactory achievement of the standards set
out in this part of the Unit specification. All sections of the statement of standards are
mandatory and cannot be altered without reference to SQA.
Where evidence for Outcomes is assessed on a sample basis, the whole of the content listed
in the Knowledge and/or Skills section must be taught and available for assessment.
Learners should not know in advance the items on which they will be assessed and different
items should be sampled on each assessment occasion.
Outcome 1
Apply nomenclature and isomerism principles of transition metal complexes.
Knowledge and/or Skills


IUPAC nomenclature
Isomerism: geometric, optical, inkage
Outcome 2
Describe bonding models and properties of transition metal complexes.
Knowledge and/or Skills






Crystal field theory and d-d splitting
Valence bond theory
UV/Vis spectroscopy and colours
Magnetism
Chelate effect and thermodynamics of stability
π-donor/acceptor ligands and complex stability
Outcome 3
Describe applications and redox chemistry of transition metals.
Knowledge and/or Skills



Redox chemistry: Latimer or Frost Diagrams
Analytical chemistry
Applications
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
3
Higher National Unit specification: Statement of standards (cont)
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
Outcome 4
Perform practical experiments related to transition metal chemistry.
Knowledge and/or Skills






Transition metal chemistry experiments
Working safely, within current health and safety regulations
Consistent and accurate results
Recording observations and results
Evaluation skills
Result analysis and conclusions
Evidence Requirements for this Unit
Written and/or oral recorded evidence for Outcomes 1–3 should be assessed using a holistic
closed-book assessment under supervised conditions. The assessment will use a sampling
approach to the Knowledge and/or Skills as detailed below. It is recommended that the
assessment be completed within 90 minutes. Learners can only have access to the SQA
Databook for HN Chemistry or any suitable replacement when sitting the assessment.
Written and/or oral recorded evidence for Outcome 4 should be assessed by production of a
full laboratory report, or by completion of an appropriate pro forma. An assessor’s
observation checklist could be used to record performance evidence of practical
experiments.
Outcome 1
The assessment will cover all of the Knowledge and/or Skills items. A learner’s response will
be judged satisfactory where the evidence shows that the learner can:


Apply IUPAC nomenclature to derive names from formulae of complexes and vice versa.
Apply principles of isomerism to produce and identify geometric, optical and linkage
isomers.
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
4
Higher National Unit specification: Statement of standards (cont)
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
Outcome 2
The assessment will sample five of the six Knowledge and/or Skills items. Learners will not
have prior knowledge of which items are being assessed. Those items which are not
sampled must be covered in the alternate (re-sit) assessment.
Where an item is sampled, a learner’s response will be judged satisfactory where the
evidence shows that the learner can:






Apply crystal field theory to describe d-d splitting in complexes; perform calculations to
determine crystal field stabilisation energies.
Apply valence bond theory to predict the geometry of transition metal complexes.
Describe UV/Vis spectra and colours of complexes in terms of electron configurations
and selection rules.
Perform calculations relating to the paramagnetism of complexes.
Describe the origin of the chelate effect in terms of thermodynamics of stability.
Describe/predict the effect of π-donor/acceptor ligands on complex stability.
Outcome 3
The assessment will sample two of the three Knowledge and/or Skills items. Learners will not
have prior knowledge of which items are being assessed. Those items which are not
sampled must be covered in the alternate (re-sit) assessment.
Where an item is sampled, a learner’s response will be judged satisfactory where the
evidence shows that the learner can:



Predict the redox chemistry of transition metal species via application of Latimer or Frost
Diagrams.
Describe analytical chemistry involving transition metals.
Describe applications involving transition metals in industrial, medicinal or any other
suitable field.
Outcome 4
Learners will perform a minimum of two practical experiments, the content of which will be
related to Outcomes 1–3. A learner’s response will be judged satisfactory where the
evidence shows that the learner can achieve all of the following:






Follow instructions to perform experiments related to transition metal chemistry.
Work in a safe manner regarding current health and safety regulations.
Achieve consistent and accurate results.
Record experimental observations and results clearly and accurately.
Evaluate validity of results in terms of sources of and values of experimental errors.
Analyse results correctly and state valid conclusions.
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
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Higher National Unit specification: Statement of standards (cont)
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
An assessor observation checklist will be used to record the learner’s performance of the
practical work in line with given instructions and health and safety requirements.
Learners must report one of the two practical experiments by production of a full laboratory
report. Learners may report the remaining practical experiment by production of a full
laboratory report or by completion of an appropriate pro forma. Where a pro forma approach
is deployed, the pro forma will not present information or assistance to the learners on how to
correctly perform calculations, analyse experimental results or experimental errors. Learners
will be expected to perform such activities independently on the basis of the experimental
data.
Where a learner does not perform an assessed practical experiment to the required
standard, they will be given the chance to either reattempt the same practical experiment, or
to undertake a different practical experiment of similar complexity. Where a laboratory report
or pro forma does not meet required standard, then the learner will be given a single
opportunity to re-draft. If the required standard is still not attained, then an alternative
practical experiment will be set.
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
6
Higher National Unit Support Notes
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
Unit Support Notes are offered as guidance and are not mandatory.
While the exact time allocated to this Unit is at the discretion of the centre, the notional
design length is 40 hours.
Guidance on the content and context for this Unit
This Unit is intended as part of the framework for HND Applied Sciences and HND Applied
Chemical Sciences but may be suitable for inclusion in other HN Science and Engineering
awards. It is designed to develop the theoretical and practical aspects of transition metal
chemistry, introduced in the HN Unit H92Y 34 Inorganic Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory
Skills.
Outcome 1 — Apply nomenclature and isomerism principles of transition metal
complexes
Application of IUPAC nomenclature to determine chemical formulae of complexes from
names and vice versa.
Predicting, recognising and naming the isomeric possibilities for transition metal complexes,
including those with bidentate ligands. This should include geometric (cis-trans and fac-mer)
optical and linkage isomerism.
Outcome 2 — Describe bonding models and properties of transition metal complexes
Crystal field theory and d-d splitting in transition metal complexes. Crystal field stabilisation
energies, spectrochemical series, high spin and low spin configurations.
Valence bond theory to predict the geometry of transition metal complexes (octahedral,
quare planar and tetrahedral).
UV/Vis spectra of one electron systems in terms of location, absorbance and shape using the
selection rules. Predict and explain using the spectrochemical series, red or violet shifts in
location with change of ligand.
Magnetic properties of complexes — paramagnetism and diamagnetism. Calculation of spin
only magnetic moments.
The chelate effect — applications of thermodynamics principles to explain the unusual
stability of complexes with multidenate ligands.
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
7
Higher National Unit Support Notes
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
π-donor/acceptor ligands and their effects on stabilising metal centres of high or low
oxidation states.
Outcome 3 — Describe applications and redox chemistry of transition metals
The redox chemistry of transition metal species in aqueous solution via application of Latimer
or Frost Diagrams. Prediction of disproportionation and coproportionation. Calculation of Eo
values between non-adjacent species in series.
Analytical chemistry involving transition metals. Use of EDTA. Selection of indicators and the
reasons for prescribed pH conditions and calculations in volumetric analysis. Use of
precipitating agents (especially organic and organometallic compounds) in gravimetric
analysis. Ideal properties of precipitants and calculation of results.
Applications involving transition metals in industrial, medicinal or any other suitable field.
There are many aspects which could be covered. A brief synopsis of a small number will
serve to develop awareness in the learner of the diverse applicability of this area of
chemistry.
Outcome 4 — Perform practical experiments related to transition metal chemistry
Guidance on suitable practical experiments for assessment purposes is given elsewhere in
this document. However, it is envisaged that learners will also participate in a range of other
practical experiments which will both develop their laboratory skills and support the theory
covered in Outcomes 1–3.
In carrying out such activities, learners should follow Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and
carry out or be familiar with the risk and Control of Substances Hazardous to Health
(COSHH) assessments on all procedures undertaken. Opportunities should be taken to
develop awareness of the sources of experimental error and of the accuracy of
measurements, with quantification of errors where possible.
Guidance on approaches to delivery of this Unit
There is no particular order in which Outcomes 1–3 would be best delivered. It is envisaged
that laboratory work and demonstrations will feature across the delivery of each of the
Outcomes, and that the assessed practical experiments for Outcome 4 will be undertaken in
a similar timeframe to the underpinning theory.
It is envisaged that delivery of Outcome 1 could commence with a general overview of the
nature of transition metal complexes, including a recap of electron configuration, common
ligands (mono- and polydenate-) and dative bond formation. A brief synopsis of some
important applications of transition metal complexes would be beneficial at this stage.
Learners could be instructed on how to determine the valence of the metal in a complex.
IUPAC nomenclature rules could then be covered in detail, with learners being required to
derive both names and formulae. The topic of isomerism may be best introduced by means
of a recap of learners’ existing knowledge of organic chemistry, and then progressing to
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
8
Higher National Unit Support Notes
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
consider both the equivalent and the non-equivalent examples from transition metals
complexes.
Aspects covered should be geometric (cis-trans and fac-mer), optical and linkage isomerism.
It is expected that model building exercises would play a valuable role in delivery of this
topic.
Outcome 2 could commence with a description of crystal field theory and its effect on d-d
splitting in transition metal complexes. Learners would be required to calculate crystal field
stabilisation energies, and to understand the concept of high spin and low spin configurations
and the effect of the spectrochemical series on these.
The valence bond theory topic could first be delivered with a recap of material on main group
element, and then proceed to cover the VBT model as applied to transition metal complexes.
Learners should be able to explain and predict common geometries.
The origin of the UV/Vis spectra could be explained in terms of d-d splitting, with a brief
synopsis of the appropriate selection rules. There are many applications which may be used
to enliven this topic eg gemstones, pigments. The prediction and explanation of red or violet
shifts in terms of spectrochemical series will particularly lend itself to practical based
approaches to delivery.
The magnetic properties of complexes would consider the origin of both paramagnetism and
diamagnetism, with calculation of spin only magnetic moments for the former. Learners
should be able to identify high and low spin configurations via the application of experimental
magnetic data.
The additional stability of complexes with multidentate ligands could be explained in terms of
the chelate effect. This will build upon learners’ understanding of entropy and equilibrium
constants.
The effects π-donor/acceptor ligands on stabilising metal centres of high or low oxidation
states should be covered in brief, with learners able to identify ligands of each type and
describe/predict their effects.
In Outcome 3 learners will be introduced to Latimer and Frost Diagrams as tools for
presenting and interpreting the redox chemistry of transition metal species in aqueous
solutions. Learners should be able to construct such diagrams, and use them to predict
disproportionation and coproportionation, and calculate Eo values between non-adjacent
species in series.
The analytical chemistry of transition metals is a very large topic, and only a brief overview of
some key aspects should be covered. The use of EDTA as a complexation agent should be
covered, and the selection of indicators and the reasons for prescribed pH conditions and
calculations in volumetric analysis should also be covered. Further topics to be covered
could be the use of precipitating agents (especially organic and organometallic compounds)
in gravimetric analysis and the ideal properties of precipitants and calculation of results.
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
9
Higher National Unit Support Notes (cont)
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
Applications involving transition metals in industrial, medicinal or any other suitable field.
There are many aspects which could be covered. A brief synopsis of a small number will
serve to develop awareness in the learner of the diverse applicability of this area of
chemistry. Examples could include Wilkinson’s catalysts, cis-platin, haemoglobin, etc.
It is envisaged that Outcome 4 will be delivered alongside the theoretical based Outcomes
1–3. A range of practical experiments could be utilised to both support understanding of the
underlying theory and to prepare students for undertaking the assessed practical
experiments. Aspects suitable for experimental investigation might include visible spectra of
complexes, complexiometric titrations, redox potentials and modelling exercises.
Guidance on approaches to assessment of this Unit
Evidence can be generated using different types of assessment. The following are
suggestions only. There may be other methods that would be more suitable to learners.
Outcomes 1–3 could be assessed by a single holistic closed-book assessment with an
appropriate cut-off score that covers the sampling requirements as detailed in the Evidence
Requirements. Assessment should be carried out in supervised conditions, and it is
recommended that the assessment be completed within 90 minutes. Learners can only have
access to the SQA Databook for HN Chemistry or any suitable replacement when sitting the
assessment.
Where evidence of Outcomes 1–3 is assessed by sampling, the whole of the content listed in
the Knowledge and/or Skills must be taught and available for assessment. Learners should
not know in advance the items on which they will be assessed, and different items should be
sampled on each assessment occasion. Any items not sampled in the first assessment, must
be included in the alternative (re-sit) assessment.
In Outcome 4 learners are required to undertake two assessed practical experiments, the
content of which will be related to Outcomes 1–3. Examples of suitable experiments are
given below. However, this list is not prescriptive, and other practical experiments of similar
complexity may be used by the centre.
Suitable practical experiments are:





Complexation titration using EDTA to determine transition metal content of a given
substance.
Determination of nickel using dimethylglyoxime.
Preparation of [Ti(H20)6]3+ and [TiCl6]3- and run the UV spectra. Account for location,
shape, absorbance of each and the differences between them.
Prepare the cis- and trans- isomers of K [Cr(C2O4)2(H2O)2]. Test each isomer for purity
(dil. NH4OH).
Determination of the dissociation constant of the aqua ligand in [Co(NH3)5H2O]3+
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
10
Higher National Unit Support Notes (cont)
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
Assessed practical experiments will usually be performed individually. However, there may
be some experiments that are suitable to be undertaken in pairs or small groups. If this is the
case then the assessor should ensure that all participants are actively involved and are able
to adequately demonstrate the required skills.
An exemplar instrument of assessment with marking guidelines has been produced to
indicate the national standard of achievement at SCQF level 8.
Centres are reminded that prior verification of centre-devised assessments would help to
ensure that the national standard is being met. Where learners experience a range of
assessment methods, this helps them to develop different skills that should be transferable to
work or further and higher education.
Opportunities for e-assessment
E-assessment may be appropriate for some assessments in this Unit. By e-assessment we
mean assessment which is supported by Information and Communication Technology (ICT),
such as e-testing or the use of e-portfolios or social software. Centres which wish to use
e-assessment must ensure that the national standard is applied to all learner evidence and
that conditions of assessment as specified in the Evidence Requirements are met,
regardless of the mode of gathering evidence. The most up-to-date guidance on the use of
e-assessment to support SQA’s qualifications is available at
www.sqa.org.uk/e-assessment.
Opportunities for developing Core and other essential skills
The delivery and assessment of this Unit will provide learners with the opportunity to develop
the Core Skills of Problem Solving at SCQF level 6, Numeracy at SCQF level 5 and
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at SCQF level 4.
Problem Solving — Reviewing and Evaluating at SCQF level 6
Following assessed practical experiments learners will be required to review and evaluate
the effectiveness of the exercise with a thorough interpretation of random and systematic
sources of error. They will be required to reach sound conclusions on the basis of the data
collected and the inherent errors.
Numeracy — Using Number at SCQF level 5
Learners will be required to decide on steps to be carried out and in what order to solve problems
or situations, where the required processes are not obvious, eg calculations involving reaction
stoichiometry or calculations of percentage yield.
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
11
Higher National Unit Support Notes (cont)
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) — Providing/Creating Information
at SCQF level 4
Learners will make effective and appropriate use of ICT packages to produce laboratory
reports or pro formas in an appropriate format. Packages used will likely include word
processing, spreadsheets and specialist chemical structure software. Learners will also be
required to utilise internet search engines to source information on research topics.
Sustainability
Sustainability can be embedded in delivery of the Unit in a variety of ways. For example, by
encouraging minimum usage, correct disposal procedures and possibly recycling (eg of
solvents) during practical experiments.
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
12
History of changes to Unit
Version
Description of change
Date
© Scottish Qualifications Authority 2015
This publication may be reproduced in whole or in part for educational purposes provided
that no profit is derived from reproduction and that, if reproduced in part, the source is
acknowledged.
Additional copies of this Unit specification can be purchased from the Scottish Qualifications
Authority. Please contact the Business Development and Customer Support team, telephone
0303 333 0330.
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
13
General information for learners
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
This section will help you decide whether this is the Unit for you by explaining what the Unit
is about, what you should know or be able to do before you start, what you will need to do
during the Unit and opportunities for further learning and employment.
This is a 1 credit Unit at SCQF level 8, which you are likely to be studying as part of the
second year of an HND Science programme. Before progressing to this Unit it would be
beneficial to have completed the HN Units H92X 34 Fundamental Chemistry: Theory and
Laboratory Skills and H92Y 34 Inorganic Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills. There will
be a strong emphasis on the importance of experimental data in understanding chemical
principles, and on the applications of chemical knowledge in practical situations.
On completion of the Unit you should be able to:
1
2
3
4
Apply nomenclature and isomerism principles of transition metal complexes.
Describe bonding models and properties of transition metal complexes.
Describe applications and redox chemistry of transition metals.
Perform practical experiments related to transition metal chemistry.
Outcome 1
In this Outcome you will encounter basic aspects of transition metal complex formation. You
will then progress to the application of IUPAC nomenclature to determine chemical formulae
of complexes from names and vice versa.
You will also cover the types of isomerism which arise in transition metal complexes, and
their nomenclatures.
Outcome 2
In this Outcome you will cover essential aspects of transition metal complex formation and
properties. This will include crystal field theory and d-d splitting in transition metal complexes,
crystal field stabilisation energies, the spectrochemical series and high spin and low spin
configurations. You will learn how the valence bond theory can be applied to predict the
geometry of transition metal complexes (octahedral, square planar and tetrahedral).
The colour chemistry of transition metal complexes, including UV/Vis spectra of one electron
systems in terms of location, absorbance, and shape using the selection rules will also be
covered.
You will also learn about the magnetic properties of complexes — paramagnetism and
diamagnetism — and how to calculate spin only magnetic moments. In addition, aspects
affecting complex stability, including the chelate effect and π-donor/acceptor ligands will be
covered.
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
14
General information for learners (cont)
Unit title:
Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills
(SCQF level 8)
Outcome 3
In this Outcome you will learn about the redox chemistry of transition metal species in
aqueous solution via application of Latimer or Frost Diagrams, and how to predict
disproportionation and coproportionation.
You will cover aspects of analytical chemistry involving transition metals, such as use of
EDTA and use of precipitating agents in gravimetric analysis.
You will also learn about important applications involving transition metals in industrial or
medicinal fields.
Outcome 4
In this Outcome you will undertake practical experiments, based on the content of Outcomes
1–3.
During this practical work, you will also be expected to develop good laboratory practices as
well as improve your skills of manipulation, observation and measurement. You will also be
encouraged to develop safe working practices and to strive constantly to improve the
accuracy and reliability of your results. The reporting and analysis of experimental data is an
important aspect of the practical sessions.
Assessment
For Outcomes 1 to 3 you will take a closed-book, end of Unit assessment.
Outcome 4 will be assessed after you have learned the necessary practical skills, and will
take the form of two practical experiments, for which you will report your results either in full
laboratory reports, or by completion of pro forma reports.
Core Skills
Although there is no automatic certification of Core Skills in the Unit, you will have
opportunities to develop the Core Skills of Problem Solving at SCQF level 6, Numeracy at
SCQF level 5 and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at SCQF level 4.
H939 35, Transition Metal Chemistry: Theory and Laboratory Skills (SCQF level 8)
15